The City of Cincinnati has signed a contract for $71.4 million for the construction of the first phase of its streetcar project and has set an anticipated opening date of September 15, 2016.

The contract with the joint venture of Messer Construction, Prus Construction and Delta Railroad Construction, Inc. means that it now can begin preparation for construction of the tracks, maintenance and operations facility, power system, and station stops.

The City will provide an additional $492,933 in funding due to increased costs in materials, labor, and bonding resulting from a three-month delay in executing the contract. Approximately $9.4 million remains in project contingency funds.

"On behalf of the project team, we're proud to be part of this exciting development in our hometown," Messer Construction Senior Vice President Mark Luegering said in a prepared release. "We're committed to delivering a safe, quality and inclusive project for the City of Cincinnati. You've got the right people on the job."

The joint venture submitted the lowest of three bids in February, saying it could do the work for $70.9 million – well above the $44.6 million budgeted for the work.

City Council approved an additional $17.4 million for the project on June 24, triggering an additional $5 million in funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation.

The estimated cost of the 3.6-mile loop, which will connect --> --> -->The Banks --> --> --> with Findlay Market, is now $133 million.

Photos provided

Previous reading on BC:
Committee approves $17.4M for streetcar, triggers $5M in federal funds (6/25/13)
Qualls: Streetcar bids raise 'serious concerns' (2/15/13)
City and Duke agree to court; Utility relocation to begin soon (2/4/13)
Committee approvals keep streetcar on track (9/24/12)
Consultant sought to work with streetcar manufacturer (9/10/12)